ACS Board of Trustees announces Superintendent Retirement in 2027: International Search Underway

ACS is preparing for an important leadership transition that will shape the school’s future. On Monday, September 15, Superintendent Monique Flickinger announced her plan to retire at the conclusion of her contract in July 2027, following what will be a remarkable nine-year tenure; the longest in ACS history.

A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

Since joining ACS, Monique has guided the school through a period of transformative growth. Her leadership has been defined by:

• Strategic innovation, including the launch of the Arabic Institute of Excellence and the award-winning Backstage Techtoo program in Middle School.
• Growth and engagement, with rising enrollment and expanded partnerships with leading corporate and philanthropic organizations.
• A successful transition to our new, purpose-built campus on Saadiyat Island, creating a world-class environment for learning.

Steadfast leadership during the global pandemic, ensuring stability, continuity, and care for the entire ACS community. 

Reflecting on her time at ACS, Monique shared:
“Working at ACS has been an absolute joy! The students, families, and colleagues here have filled my days with purpose, laughter, and countless memories. I’ve decided that when I retire, it will be from the best international school in the world because, honestly, how could I ever top this? With two more years still ahead of learning, leading, and laughing together, I simply want to share how grateful I am for this community that has truly been like family.”

Superintendent Search Underway

To ensure a seamless transition, the ACS Board of Trustees has launched an international search for the next Superintendent. A dedicated Superintendent Search Committee, co-chaired by Serena Carnevale and Gaby Fadel, has been established and includes trustees Matt Ayoub, Kathleen Hockram, Adib Mattar, Sunita Nanda Singh, and Fatiah Touray, along with U.S. Embassy representative Kate Skarsten.

ACS has partnered with International Schools Services (ISS), a global leader in educational executive searches, to guide the process. Senior ISS Consultant Pauline O’Brien has visited campus to meet with faculty, staff, students, and parents through a series of focus groups, ensuring that community perspectives and priorities help shape the leadership profile for the next Superintendent.

Looking Ahead

Over the coming months, ISS and the Search Committee will manage all aspects of the recruitment process, from gathering community input to identifying and evaluating candidates, before presenting finalists to the Board for consideration.

While ACS looks to the future, the community also takes this moment to celebrate Monique’s extraordinary contributions. With two more years of her leadership ahead, ACS is well-positioned to continue its tradition of excellence and to plan mindfully for the next chapter.

For information on how to apply, click here.